15 Tips for Traveling with Pets

We share so much of our lives with our pets that many of us wouldn't even consider taking a trip without them. But traveling with pets can be challenging and involves a good amount of planning ahead. Everything from choosing the right mode of transportation to deciding where to stay and what to do requires careful consideration. Here are 15 tips that will help ensure fun, safe vacation for the whole family.

Make Sure Your Pet is Suited for Travel

Make Sure Your Pet is Suited for Travel

The most important factor to consider is whether you’ll be able to manage your pet without sacrificing your own enjoyment. According to New York dog trainer Andrea Arden, “That can be a hard assessment for people to make because they’re so colored by wanting their pet to be with them or by feeling guilty for leaving them behind.” As a general rule, Arden says that if your pet has a temperament where he doesn’t adjust quickly to new environments, you’re better off leaving him home with a trusted caregiver or boarding him in a good kennel. “It doesn’t make sense to bring him since, by the time your pet adjusts, the trip will be over,” she says.

Choose Your Destination Wisely

Choose Your Destination Wisely

Much like traveling with children, some destinations are more appropriate for animals than others. And just because a place is family-friendly, that doesn’t mean it’s pet-friendly. For instance, most of the national parks ban pets from trails, including those in Yosemite, Yellowstone and Grand Canyon National Parks. (Check nps.gov for guidelines.) Pets are also restricted access to many public beaches, so be sure to do your research. Petfriendlytravel.com is a good place resource for finding beaches and campgrounds where pets are welcome.